Honiara, Solomon Islands – Tourism Solomons has established a trust fund for the families of senior marketing officers Chris Nemaia and Stella Lucas tragically lost in the Mataniko River region on 19 April 2018.

“Chris has left behind a wife and three little boys while Stella has left behind a husband and a very young son,” Mr Tuamoto said.

“Both officers were much loved and touched many people over the years – they were ‘true faces’ of the Solomon Islands tourism industry around the world and their tragic passing has had major impact on all of us.

“Helping their families at this time and going forward into the future via the establishment of this trust fund is the least we can do.”

National Tourism Forum chair and Ministry of Culture & Tourism, director of tourism, Barney Sivoro has set the ball rolling with a $20,000 donation from his organisation.

“Both Chris and Stella gave huge service to the Solomon Islands over a period in excess of 36 years and played major roles in helping to put the Solomon Islands on the international travel map,” Mr Sivoro said.

“It is only appropriate that we, as a collective, recognise their efforts and give something back.”

Industry friends, both in the Solomon Islands and overseas, are invited to contribute to this special fund.